Putts to close after 100 years

J. L. Putt & Sons Ltd, or ‘Putts Decorating Store' as it is better known, on Nottingham Road, Loughborough, to close after more than 100 years of trade. Pictured is Putts Decorating Store. (Image: Loughborough Echo)

A DECORATING store in Loughborough is to close after more than 100 years of trade.

J. L. Putt & Sons Ltd, or ‘Putts’ as it is better known, in Nottingham Road, Loughborough, is to close its doors at the end of the year.

David Putt, who is to retire with wife Erica, told the Echo no exact closing date has been set but he anticipates by Christmas.

Mr Putt said: “This was a hard decision to make and only made after a lot of careful thought. However, none of us are getting any younger and now seems to be the right time.

“We will all miss our many loyal customers who have become friends over the years.

“Many of them returning to us long after they have moved away from Loughborough; customers who will tell us they used to come here with their parents, even grandparents.

“We will miss everyone whom we have had a laugh and a smile with over the years.”

J. L. Putt & Sons Ltd, or ‘Putts’ as it is better known, in Nottingham Road, Loughborough, is to close its doors at the end of the year Pictured is David Putt and wife Erica outside the store in Nottingham Road, Loughborough. (Image: Loughborough Echo)

Putt’s has a long history in the town. It was founded by Joseph Lester Putt in 1911 and trading was carried out for a number of years from the Manor House in Sparrow Hill before moving to the present site in 1928.

During the 1930s, Joseph was joined in the business by his two sons Harold and Herbert.

On the outbreak of war, the shop closed - partly because there wasn’t any wallpaper being printed. Harold joined the Army Fire Service and Herbert the Royal Air Force.

The shop was reopened in 1951 selling products such as Walpamur, Duradio, Dadolin and Whitewash.

Putts has always been known for its large selection of wallpapers, and is deemed to be one of the most comprehensive in the Midlands.

Up to 10 painters were employed at one time on domestic and commercial decorating.

This side of the business closed in 1970, leaving just the retail shop supplying trade customers, local factories and traders as well as the general public.

Harold died in 1991 leaving Herbert and his son David, and daughter-in-law Erica, to run the shop along with several long serving members of staff including Michael, Pat and Shirley.

Although now 97, Herbert still takes an interest in the daily running of business.

Mr Putt added: “It’s sad to think yet another family-owned, independent business will disappear from the town, leaving only a few local names remaining amongst the national chains, which dominate every High Street.

“We will still be here for a few more weeks while stocks are cleared and no doubt, a few memories are refreshed.”